Matthew Fleissner is an avid golfer who enjoys traveling, always allowing time to enjoy the sport while away. In the following article, Matthew Fleissner provides a list of the best destinations for a golf-focused vacation around the world.

Every golfing aficionado has a bucket list of destinations they would like to venture around. And how best to explore them than with a mini trip?

From prime golfing spots in the United States of America to the luxurious courses in New Zealand or Mauritius, golfers have a bunch of weekend (or longer) vacations to enjoy.

Matthew Fleissner on the Best US Courses

The best mini trips for golf begin on home soil. With the following five destinations, golfers are bound to want to turn their long weekend away into a month-long stay.

Kiawah Island Golf Resort, South Carolina

Matthew Fleissner says that located just south of Charleston, the Kiawah Island Golf Resort is the place to be for every golf lover. Boasting a multitude of villas, a five-star hotel, and bigger rental homes, there are plenty of options for groups of all shapes and sizes.

It’s the ultimate in golf vacations, thanks to the countless miles of white-sand beaches and its handful of golf courses. Not to mention it was purpose built for the 1991 Ryder Cup!

Big Cedar Lodge, Missouri

For golfers who prefer glamping tents, log cabins, or cottages, the Big Cedar Lodge is the best place to try. Situated in the heart of Missouri’s Ozark Mountains, the wilderness resort has five golf courses designed by world-class players like Arnold Palmer, reports Matthew Fleissner.

And if golfing becomes a little tiring, vacationers can spend time ogling the mountains, streams, and waterfalls or horseback riding, swimming, boating, and fishing.

Manistee National Resort, Michigan

Lake Michigan may be best known for its fantastic beach towns, but its golf courses are just as spectacular, particularly the Manistee National Golf & Resort.

Matthew Fleissner says that the Canthooke Valley Course is a parkland-style ordeal with challenging greens but fun for all abilities. However, that isn’t where golfers should stay; teeing off on the Cutters Ridge course is another must-do. Designed by Jerry Matthews, it boasts strategic holes through scenic wetlands, diverse terrain, and hardwoods.

Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa, Texas

Sat in the hill country of Austin, Texas, golfers can find the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa set on 4,000 beautiful acres. It houses four top-ranked golf courses, a club fitting studio, and a golf academy with stunning views and course variety.

Matthew Fleissner says that alongside all this golfing goodness, vacationers can enjoy the expansive gym facilities, adults-only pool, the glorious Mokara Spa, nature trail, and many dining options.

The Prairie Club, Nebraska

The founders of this gem wanted to bring golf back to the time before completely man-made courses. And thus, they’ve constructed the two courses in the wind-carved undulating, treeless prairie with tough greens and exceptional fairways.

Fancy Teeing Off Further Afield – Best Locations to Do So

Matthew Fleissner explains that it’s no secret that the USA has an amazing range of golfing mini trip destinations. But venturing further afield brings brand-new atmospheres to American golfers.

Cape Kidnappers, New Zealand

As far as golf course design goes, Cape Kidnappers is a true spectacle — plunging valleys and seaside cliffs abound here.

Boasting equal parts beauty and drama, Cape Kidnappers is one of the globe’s best golf courses. Regardless of golf-playing level, the deep bunkers and firm greens are sure to bring a challenge to all.

Royal County Down, Northern Ireland

Matthew Fleissner reports that history-loving golfers will love Royal County Down; it’s one of the oldest (and best) in the world!

Situated in the Mountains of Mourne, those on the golf course are treated to panoramic views of Northern Ireland’s Dundrum Bay. Couple that with domed greens, fairways lined with heather, and top-notch bunkers, and visitors will never want to leave.

Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic

Golfers looking for a premier experience should head to Casa de Campo in the Dominican Republic. The Teeth of the Dog course is perhaps the most celebrated design in the entire Caribbean — and the oceanfront fairways are a real phenomenon.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Canada

Matthew Fleissner notes that wildlife and mountain vistas accompany some of the most dramatic hole designs Canada has to offer. Visitors flock here for the stunning accommodations and the next-level golfing experience. Just one look is enough to whet golfers’ appetites.